The Ohio Forestry Association Foundation, Inc. finds its roots with the creation of the Ohio Forestry Association, Inc. (OFA) which started in 1903. After more than 100 years as tax exempt non-profit organization, OFA incorporated as a trade association in 2008. The original tax exempt corporation thus became the OFA Foundation.

PURPOSE

The OFA Foundation, Inc. is operated exclusively for charitable, educational and scientific purposes to encourage the conservation of Ohio's forests and the development of industry which uses the forest resources. The primary forestry goals of the Foundation are to educate the citizenry, promote sound practices and encourage research.

The OFA Foundation, Inc. is an IRS 501(c) (3) tax-exempt non-profit corporation. All donations to the foundation are tax deductible. Gifts are accepted from individual donors, groups, organizations, corporations and other foundations. Donation options include outright gifts (cash, securities, real estate); deferred or planned giving (wills and bequests, life insurance, remainder interest); endowments, memorials or tributes; gifts in trust, annuities and annuity trusts. Those wishing to make donations should can print the brochure and mail or donate online.

PROGRAMS OFFERED AND PROMOTED THROUGH THE OHIO FORESTRY ASSOCIATION FOUNDATION

OFA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP - This program offers financial assistance to students pursuing a forest resource education. Currently, one or more scholarships are offered each year to Ohio high school graduates who have been accepted into an approved university, college, junior college or technical university offering a forest resource curriculum. The 2013 Memorial Scholarship has been awarded to Conrad Schafer of Scio, Ohio. Congratulations Conrad! Applications for the 2014 Memorial Scholarship will be accepted until April 15, 2014.

GRANTS - The Foundation will support special activities including education programs, forestry promotions, forest research and anything that meets the goals of the foundation.

CAMP CANOPY - Since 1950,OFA has operated an annual forestry camp for high school students; and since then more than 10,000 students have participated.The one-week residential camp offers students a chance to learn about forestry resources in a fun-filled, natural setting.

OHIO TREE FARM PROGRAM - The Ohio Tree Farm Program recognizes forest landowners who have made a commitment to forestry practices in their woodlands. The Ohio Tree Farm Program promotes forestry education and outreach through various means including the Ohio Woodland Journal and annual Tree Farm Tour of Ohio’s Outstanding Tree Farm.

SPECIAL EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES - The Foundation supports a variety of fund-raising events like the Forest Heritage Festival and Lumberman’s Outing and will support other fundraising events that promote forestry and related activities.